Father, son try to rob Nashua bingo hall, police say

NASHUA -- Nashua police say employees at a Spruce Street function hall stopped an attempted robbery Saturday night by pinning an armed man to the ground. Police found his son outside acting as the lookout and arrested him.

According to a news release, police responded to a call at Eagles Wing's Function Hall, 10 Spruce St., at 8:35 p.m., for a report of an armed robbery in progress.

Police said when they arrived at the scene, they found Charles Preston, 46, of 42 Worcester St., Apt. 2, Nashua, inside the business being restrained by several employees. They also found Charles's son Justin Preston, 20, also of 42 Worcester St., outside the business.

According to police, Charles Preston went into the hall's office armed with a handgun and demanded cash.

"Other employees present, but not in the office observed the robbery and physically confronted Charles, ultimately pinning him to the ground," according to the news release. "They were able to hold him there until officers arrived."

Police said no one was hurt in the incident.

Charles Preston was charged with robbery, a Class A felony. Justin Preston was charged with criminal liability to robbery, also Class A felony. Both are scheduled to be arraigned in the 9th Circuit Court Nashua Division on Monday.